VinFast Opens First Showroom In India At Surat

Ahead of its factory opening, Vietnamese EV maker VinFast has opened its first showroom in India. Located in Surat, Gujarat, the showroom will initially showcase two offerings from the carmaker- the VF6 and the VF7 7  both of which will soon go on sale here. VinFast has announced its plans to set up a network of 35 dealerships across the country by the end of the year,  which will be spread out across 27 cities.

 

Also Read: Vinfast Ties Up With MyTVS For Vehicle Service And Charging In India
 

This is VinFast's first-ever showroom in India

 

The next set of showrooms is expected to open in cities such as Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Cochin, Bhubaneshwar, Trivandrum, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Coimbatore, Calicut, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Shimla, Agra, Jhansi, Gwalior, Vapi, Baroda and Goa. The carmaker has also partnered with ancillary OEMs such as RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure to create a nationwide charging and after-sales service network, apart from BatX Energies, for battery recycling, rare metal recovery, and end-of-life battery repurposing.

 

Also Read: VinFast VF6 And VF7 Bookings Open For Rs 21,000; Will Go On Sale Next Month
 

Bookings for the VF 7 and VF 6 are open in India

 

The company had opened bookings for the VF7 and VF6 in the country on July 21, ahead of the official launch slated for August 2025. Both EVs can be reserved at a booking amount of Rs 21,000. The cars will be locally assembled at VinFast’s upcoming facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The VF6 and VF7 are both compact SUVs, with the former smaller in dimensions than the latter. 
 

The cars will be locally assembled at VinFast’s upcoming facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu

 

In global markets, the VF7 is offered in two variants: Eco and Plus, both featuring a 70.8 kWh battery. The Eco variant gets a single electric motor putting out 201 bhp and 310 Nm of torque, while the Plus variant features dual motors with all-wheel drive, delivering a combined output of 348 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. Range figures are 450 km for the FWD Eco version and 431 km for the AWD Plus version. The VF6, meanwhile, comes with a 59.6 kWh battery pack and is offered in both single-motor (174 bhp and 250 Nm) and dual-motor variants (201 bhp and 310 Nm). The VF6 is expected to offer a range (NEDC cycle) of up to 460 km while the stricter WLTP range is claimed to be around 380 km.

 

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Volvo EX30 Electric SUV Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Launch

The Volvo EX30 small electric SUV has been spied testing in India ahead of its expected launch later this year. Volvo had previously confirmed a 2025 India launch for the SUV last year. The camouflaged test mule was reportedly spied testing outside of New Delhi.

 

Also read: Volvo XC60 Facelift India Launch On August 1

Speaking of the EX30, the electric SUV is Volvo’s smallest model on sale in global markets and is positioned below the EX40 and EC40 Recharge (previously the XC40 and C40). The EX30 features Volvo’s latest design language, first seen on the all-new EX90 flagship electric SUV. The fascia is defined by an enclosed grille flanking sleek headlamps featuring the iconic Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lamps. In profile, the EX30 features clean body lines with mildly bulging wheel arches and a prominent rear haunch.
 

Round the rear, the design is defined by a split tail lamp design that looks to be a reinterpretation of the current Volvo SUV’s vertically stacked lights. The roofline also tapers towards the rear.
 

Also read: Volvo Renames Electric SUVs In India: C40 Is Now EC40, XC40 Switches To EX40
 

The cabin follows a minimalist theme with a single large central touchscreen acting as the control centre for a majority of the in-car functions and also acting as an instrument display. The rest of the dashboard is devoid of any other notable features, with the car also doing without a traditional instrument cluster.
 

On the powertrain front, the SUV comes with two battery pack options: a 51 kWh LFP battery offering a claimed range of 344 kilometres or a 69 kWh pack featuring NMC cells, which promises a range of up to 480 kilometres (WLTP cycle). There are two powertrain configurations on offer globally, a single-motor set-up offered with both batteries developing up to 268 bhp and 343 Nm of torque or a more powerful dual-motor set-up exclusive to the 69 kWh battery, delivering a stronger 422 bhp and 543 Nm. For now, it remains to be seen which powertrain option will be brought to India.
 

Also read: 2025 Volvo XC90 Review: Flagship 3-Row SUV More Formidable Than Ever
 

While globally positioned under the EX40 and EC40, it remains to be seen how Volvo will position the EX30 in India, with the model expected to arrive in India via the CBU route. The EX40 Recharge, currently on sale at Rs 50.10 lakh (ex-showroom), is locally assembled, meaning that as a CBU, the EX30 could sit above its larger sibling at least until local assembly commences.

 

Image source

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Mercedes-AMG GT Track Sport Concept Teased: A New Porsche 911 GT3 RS Rival?

Mercedes-AMG has teased a new AMG GT Track Sport Concept based on the second-gen AMG GT sports car. The teaser image provides some insights into the concept’s design, revealing a car that could be at home both on the track and on the road. The carmaker has also said that the new concept ‘opens another exciting chapter in its performance history’ and that the second-gen AMG GT family is set to expand to include more models.

 

Also read: Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe India Launch On August 12

 

The AMG GT proportions are unmistakable in the teasers with the low-slung profile and elongated bonnet, though there are some major aerodynamic changes visible. The biggest is the oversized swan neck spoiler over the rear end - likely also featuring active aero - along with other smaller details such as a large front splitter and what looks to be additional ducting and venting up front. All in all, the concept does look quite similar to a GT3-spec race car, though the tyres visible in the images suggest more road-going applications than outright race.

 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG Line Launched In India: Prices Start At Rs 1.40 Crore 
 

The first-gen AMG GT did receive a number of more performance-focused derivatives from the rather tame GT S to the hotter GT R and, of course, the run-out special - the bonkers AMG GT Black Series.
 

On the performance front, Mercedes has confirmed that the concept will feature its AMG V8 engine and that the model has been ‘designed for absolute driving dynamics’, and setting new performance and chasing record times. A run at a Nurburgring lap record? Very much possible.

 

Also Read: Mercedes-AMG GT 63, GT 63 Pro Launched In India: Prices Start At Rs 3 Crore
 

Expect Mercedes to drop more details for the concept in the ensuing weeks, with the car likely to make its public debut in September at the Munich Auto Show 2025. In production guise, the new variant could go up against the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, which is also a track-honed machine but which can be used on public roads.

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Honda CB125 Hornet vs Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Specifications Compared

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India is all set to expand its 125cc portfolio in the Indian market with the launch of the CB125 Hornet. Set to launch on August 1, the baby Hornet is ready to throw its hat into the ring against well-established players like the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R. In this comparison, we see how the new kid on the block lines up against its rivals, on paper.

 

Also Read: Honda CB125 Hornet Unveiled; Will Rival the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R

 

Honda CB125 Hornet Vs Rivals: Specifications Check

 

	Honda CB125 Hornet	TVS Raider	Hero Xtreme 125R
Engine	123.94cc, single cylinder air-cooled	124.8cc single cylinder air-cooled	124.7cc single cylinder air-cooled
Max Power	11 bhp at 7500 rpm	11.2 bhp at 7500 rpm	11.4 bhp at 8250 rpm
Peak Torque	11.2 Nm at 6000 rpm	11.2/11.7 Nm (iGo) at 6000 rpm	10.5 Nm at 6000 rpm
Gearbox	5-speed	5-speed	5-speed

 

All three motorcycles feature a single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with displacements hovering around the 125cc mark. In terms of power output, the Honda CB125 Hornet delivers 11 bhp at 7500 rpm, placing it slightly below its competitors. The TVS Raider produces 11.2 bhp at the same rpm, while the Hero Xtreme 125R leads the trio with 11.4 bhp at 8250 rpm. This means the Hornet makes 0.2 bhp less than the Raider and 0.4 bhp less than the Xtreme 125R.  

 

Also Read: New Honda Shine 100 DX Unveiled; Price Announcement on August 1

 

Looking at torque figures, the CB125 Hornet offers 11.2 Nm at 6000 rpm, which is on par with the standard version of the Raider. However, TVS also offers an ‘iGo’ variant that pushes peak torque to 11.7 Nm. On the other hand, the Hero Xtreme 125R produces 10.5 Nm at 6000 rpm, making the Hornet 0.7 Nm torquier than the Hero offering. All three motorcycles come equipped with a 5-speed gearbox.

   

Honda CB125 Hornet Vs Rivals: Dimensions and Weight

 

	Honda CB125 Hornet	TVS Raider	Hero Xtreme 125R
Kerb Weight	124 kg	123 kg	136 kg
Seat Height	796 mm	780 mm	794 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	12 litres	10 litres	10 litres
Wheelbase	1330 mm	1326 mm	1319 mm

 

The Honda CB125 Hornet sits between its competitors when it comes to dimensions and other numbers. Compared to the Raider, the Hornet is slightly heavier by 1 kg, which is a negligible difference in real-world use. However, it's significantly lighter than the Hero Xtreme 125R by 12 kg. In terms of seat height, the Hornet is the tallest of the three. It's 16 mm higher than the TVS Raider and 2 mm taller than the Hero Xtreme. 

 

Also Read: Exclusive: Honda Activa E Gets Cheaper Battery Swap Subscription Plan

 

The small Hornet clearly takes the lead in fuel tank capacity. It offers 2 litres more than both rivals. When it comes to wheelbase, the Hornet has the longest among the three. 

 

Honda CB125 Hornet Vs Rivals: Cycle Parts 

 

	Honda CB125 Hornet	TVS Raider	Hero Xtreme 125R
Front/Rear Shock	USD/Monoshock	Telescopic/Monoshock adjustable	Telescopic/Monoshock
Tyre size front	80/100-17 (tubeless)	80/100-17 (tubeless)	90/90 - 17 (tubeless)
Tyre size rear	110/80- 17 (tubeless)	100/90- 17 (tubeless)	120/80 - 17 (tubeless)
Brakes front	Disc – 240 mm	Disc – 240 mm	Disc – 276 mm
Brakes rear	Drum – 130 mm	Drum – 130 mm	Drum – 130 mm

The Honda CB125 Hornet is the only one here to feature upside-down (USD) forks, while both the Raider and Xtreme feature telescopic forks. At the rear, all three bikes use a monoshock, but only the Raider offers adjustability. In terms of tyre sizes, the Hornet and Raider share the same front tyre size, while the Xtreme goes for a slightly wider front tyre. On the rear tyre, the Hornet sits between its two rivals. The Hornet and the Raider are equipped with similar-sized front discs, while the Hero Xtreme features a larger front disc. All three bikes use a drum brake at the rear of the same size. 

 

 

Honda CB125 Hornet Vs Rivals: Features

 
On the features front, all three motorcycles offer a complete LED setup, including headlights, DRLs, tail lamps, and turn indicators.  The Hornet is equipped with a full-colour 4.2-inch TFT display that supports Bluetooth connectivity through Honda’s RoadSync app. On the other hand, the TVS Raider also features a TFT display in its higher variants, offering smartphone connectivity and voice command support through the SmartXConnect system. Meanwhile, the Hero Xtreme 125R gets a basic LCD display and also offers Bluetooth connectivity.

Honda CB125 Hornet Vs Rivals: Price

 

	Honda CB125 Hornet	TVS Raider	Hero Xtreme 125R
Prices (ex-showroom)	TBA	Rs 87,000 – Rs 1.02 lakh	Rs 98,500 – Rs 1.02 lakh

 

Honda will announce prices for the CB125 Hornet on August 1. Given its competitors' pricing, Honda will likely price it competitively within this Rs 90,000 to Rs 1.05 lakh bracket. However, we expect it to be the most expensive of the lot, considering what it has to offer, especially on the hardware and features front. 

 

 

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MG Cyberster Electric Roadster Launched In India At Rs 74.99 lakh

Hot on the heels of launching the M9 electric MPV under its premium ‘Select’ umbrella, JSW MG Motor India has announced prices for the Cyberster electric roadster. At Rs 72.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the Cyberster is offered in a single AWD trim and is effectively the most expensive 'MG' offering in the Indian market. However, do note that this price applies only to customers who had pre-booked the vehicle. 

New buyers interested in purchasing the roadster will now need to pay an additional Rs 2.50 lakh, as the updated ex-showroom price stands at Rs 74.99 lakh. It comes bundled with a 3.3 kW portable charger, a 7.4 kW wall-mounted charger, and complimentary standard installation. Order books have now been opened, with deliveries slated to commence from August 10, 2025.

 

Also Read: MG M9 Vs Toyota Vellfire: Specifications, Features, Prices Compared

 

The Cyberster packs a 77 kWh battery pack, which is claimed to be good for 580 km on a single charge. 

 

 First unveiled in production form at the Auto Shanghai 2023, the MG Cyberster touched down on Indian shores in March 2024, followed by its second appearance at the Auto Expo 2025.  
 
Globally, the open-top two-door sports car is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. However, for the Indian market, MG is putting all its eggs in one basket by offering only the all-wheel drive variant. This version comes equipped with dual electric motors – one on each axle – punching out a combined 503 bhp and 725 Nm of torque. According to MG, the roadster can go from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds. Powering the setup is a 77 kWh battery pack, which, on paper, promises a driving range of up to 580 km.  

 

Also Read: MG M9 Electric MPV Launched In India At Rs 69.90 Lakh

 
The electric convertible goes from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds. 

 

Coming to the design, MG says that the Cyberster roadster’s styling pays homage to the sports cars from the brand’s past. It features a tapered nose, sweptback headlights, and a sculpted bumper that integrates a front splitter. Adding to the drama are the electronically controlled scissor-style doors, paired with a retractable soft-top roof that folds behind integrated roll bars. At the rear, it incorporates LED taillights shaped like arrows, accompanied by a full-width LED light bar spanning the boot line. The lower rear section is designed with a pronounced split diffuser.

 

The Cyberster in India is offered in four dual-tone exterior colour options, including Nuclear Yellow with a Black Roof, Flare Red with a Black Roof, Andes Grey with a Red Roof, or Modern Beige with a Red Roof.  

 

Also Read: MG M9 Review: Electric MPV With First-Class Airliner Seats
 
Features a trio of screens on the dash and one vertical unit in the centre console. 

 

The Cyberster is MG’s first electric sports car; that said, there is no shortage of tech inside. It gets a flat-bottom steering wheel equipped with multiple control buttons and a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, accompanied on each side by two 7-inch auxiliary displays. A separate 7-inch vertically oriented touchscreen is located adjacent to the drive mode selector. 

Additional features include audio setup from Bose, screen compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and Level 2 ADAS functions. Moreover, the centre console extends in a descending layout and features a structural divider that separates the driver and passenger areas.  

 

Also Read: First MG Select Dealership Opened In Thane, Maharashtra
 
Order books have been opened today while deliveries are slated to commence from August 10 onwards. 

 

The MG Cyberster is a one-of-a-kind offering in the Indian market, with the closest electric rival being the BYD Seal at Rs 53.15 lakh (ex-showroom).

 

We’ll be getting behind the wheel of the Cyberster soon, and a detailed first drive review will follow shortly after. Stay tuned for that update. In the meantime, you can check out our first look video:
 

 

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India-Bound Toyota Urban Cruiser EV Showcased In Indonesia

Following the global debut in December 2024, Toyota has now showcased the production-spec Urban Cruiser EV at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. The Urban Cruiser EV is Toyota’s version of the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, developed as part of the ongoing partnership between the two Japanese carmakers. The Urban Cruiser EV will be produced at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, with a launch likely later this year.

 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki To Drop E Vitara Name For Its First EV? E-SUV Spotted On Test With New Identity  
 
 

While the Urban Cruiser EV shares its underpinnings with the e-Vitara, it features distinct styling elements, particularly in the fascia. It has swept back headlights with eyebrow-like extensions, a large central air intake, and a cleaner look, overall. However, in profile and rear, the Urban Cruiser EV’s resemblance to the e-Vitara becomes unmistakable, and even the charging port remains positioned on the front fender, just like its Maruti counterpart. 

 

Also Read: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Long Term Review: Introduction
 
On the features front, it gets a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, 360-degree cameras, a 10.25-inch digital instruments display, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a JBL sound system, among others.  
 
Moving to the powertrain, the Urban Cruiser EV comes with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, along with multiple battery options. The base variants are equipped with a 49 kWh (300 km claimed range) battery paired with a single electric motor delivering 142 bhp and 189 Nm of torque.  

 

Also Read: MG M9 Vs Toyota Vellfire: Specifications, Features, Prices Compared

 

Stepping up, the larger 61 kWh (up to 400 km) battery is available in both FWD and AWD versions overseas. The front-wheel drive setup produces 172 bhp and 189 Nm, while the all-wheel drive variant puts out a combined output of 181 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. 
 
The upcoming Urban Cruiser EV will mark Toyota’s entry into the electric vehicle segment in India. With its launch, it will get into the ring with the Maruti e-Vitara, Tata Nexon EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, and others in the segment.  

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Renault Triber Facelift: Variants Explained

After much anticipation, Renault finally launched the facelifted version of the Triber subcompact MPV in the Indian market. This is the first comprehensive facelift for the Triber, which has only received incremental updates since its launch in 2019. The Triber facelift is offered in four trims- Authentic, Evolution, Techno and Emotion, with prices ranging from Rs 6.29 lakh to Rs 9.16 lakh (ex-showroom). Here’s what each trim of the Triber offers.

 

Also Read: Renault Triber Old Vs New: Exterior, Interior & Features
 

Authentic 

[Rs 6.29 lakh (Manual), Rs 6.81 lakh (AMT)]

• Projector headlights
• Black ORVMs and door handles
• Rear skid plate
• 14-inch steel wheels with covers
• Dual-tone dashboard 
• All-black upholstery
• LED cabin lamp
• Front and rear power windows
• Manual adjustable ORVM
• Tilt-adjustable steering wheel
• LED instrument cluster
• Central locking with remote key
• 2nd row seats slide, recline, fold and tumble
• Removable 3rd row easy fix seats
• 60:40 split 2nd row seats
• Open storage on center console
• PM 2.5 clean air filter
• 12V socket & USB port in 1st row
• seat belt reminder – driver & passenger
• Rear seat belt reminder
• Seat belt with pretensioner (driver only)
• 3-point seat belt – all seats
• Isofix with child seat anchorages
• Six Airbags
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• EBD with brake assist
• Electronic stability program
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Traction control system
• Hill start assist
• Front seat belt with load limiter
• Speed alert warning
• Rear parking sensors
• Rear door child lock
• Speed sensing door lock
• Impact sensing unlock
   

Evolution 

[Rs 7.24 lakh (Manual), Rs 7.76 lakh (AMT)]

• Eight-inch display link floating touchscreen
• Android Auto /Apple CarPlay (wired)
• 2 front and 2 rear speakers
• Rear view camera
• Independent rear AC with second & third row vents

 

Techno 

[Rs 7.99 lakh (Manual), Rs 8.51 lakh (AMT)]

• Front and rear skid plates with silver finish
• LED turn indicator on ORVMs
• 15-inch alloy wheels
• Door decals
• LED tail lamp
• Roof rails with a load carrying capacity of 50 kg
• HVAC knobs with chrome rings
• Wood finish on dashboard deco
• Black and greige woven upholstery
• ORVMs with electric adjustment
• Front seat back pocket – passenger side
• Steering-mounted audio and phone controls 
• Day and night adjustable IRVMs
• Rear room lamps
• Rear wiper & washer
• Upper glove box
• Centre console cooled storage
• Vanity mirror on the passenger side
• Second row 12V socket
   

Emotion 

[Rs 8.64 lakh (Manual), Rs 9.16 lakh (AMT)]

• 15-inch alloy wheels
• LED projector headlamps
• LED DRLs
• LED front fog lamps
• Dual tone exterior with mystery black roof (optional)
• Chrome finish on parking brake button, front air vents and push button surround
• Piano black finish on multimedia surround
• Wireless charger
• Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• Smart access card
• Push button start/stop
• Driver seat armrest
• 7-inch TFT instrument cluster
• Auto headlamps
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Cruise control (only in MT)
• Welcome goodbye sequence with auto fold ORVMs
• Cooled lower glove box
• Driver seat height adjuster
• Front seat back pocket – driver side
• Rear defogger
• Driver window auto up down
• 12V socket - 3rd row
• One-touch driver window up/down
• Take a break reminder
• Front parking sensor
• Follow-me home headlamps

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Most Affordable Teslas Coming, First Units Already Rolling Off Production Line

Electric vehicle giant Tesla is ready to unleash a new range of cars at a price that you haven't heard of before. The brand since 2024 has been talking about launching new and more affordable models. which will be based on its bestsellers, Model 3 and Model Y. Now, the brand has taken the first steps towards manufacturing these new cars, which was confirmed during its 2025 Q2 results announcement on July 23. 
 

Currently the model Y starts in the US at around $45,000

 

"We continue to expand our vehicle offering, including first builds of a more affordable model in June, with volume production planned for the second half of 2025", said a company spokesperson adding that plans for launching new cars in 2025 remain on track and that initial production of the affordable EVs has already begun in the first half of 2025. It is unclear though if and when these new models will be made available in India where the EV giant set foot earlier this month, by opening its first experience centre in Mumbai.
 

Also Read: Tesla Model Y First Drive Review: Long Time Coming

The brand will expand production of new EVs in the coming month

 

According to reports, Initially the brand was planning an all-new platform for the new, affordable EVs but now in a bid to utilise the Model 3 and Y lines to their full capacity, the new models will be stripped down versions of the brands' two bestsellers. According to Q2 results declared by Tesla, it delivered a combined 373,728 units of Model 3 and Model Y while the rest of its models including the Cybertruck accounted for a mere 10,394 units worldwide.

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Maruti Suzuki XL6 Now Comes With Six Airbags As Standard; Prices Hiked

The Maruti Suzuki XL6 has become the latest in a line of vehicles from the carmaker to come with six airbags as standard. The model previously came with four airbags as standard across all variants. This feature update, however, is not without an increase in price, as the company has also announced that prices for the MPV have been hiked by 0.8 per cent, with the new prices yet to be updated on Maruti Suzuki’s website.

 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Ertiga Get 6 Airbags As Standard; Prices Hiked

The Maruti Suzuki XL6 previously got four airbags across the range

 

This update on the XL6 comes after the Baleno and the Ertiga were updated with six airbags just a few days ago. Maruti Suzuki, over the past months, has been updating its entire portfolio to meet the yet-to-be-imposed norms, which will mandate six airbags for every vehicle sold in India. Models such as the Alto K10, Eeco van, Brezza subcompact SUV, the Celerio and Wagon R also offer this safety feature. 

 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Arena Discounts July 2025: Up To Rs 1 Lakh Off On Swift, Alto, WagonR & More
 

The only vehicles in Maruti Suzuki’s portfolio to not get six airbags as standard include the S-Presso hatchback, Ignis, Fronx crossover, and the Ciaz sedan. While Fronx is also soon expected to be updated with this feature, it is unlikely that the other vehicles mentioned will receive the update. The Ciaz sedan, which has long been on sale without any comprehensive updates, will soon be discontinued, while the Ignis and S Presso will miss out on this, likely owing to concerns about affordability. A senior Maruti Suzuki official had recently confirmed that “97 per cent” of Maruti’s existing passenger car portfolio will have six airbags as standard

 

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New Renault Triber Makes India Debut; Launched At Rs 6.29 Lakh

Renault has unveiled the new Triber for the Indian market with prices for the subcompact MPV starting from Rs 6.29 lakh (ex-showroom). In comparison, prices for the outgoing Triber started at Rs 6.14 lakh (ex-showroom). The launch marks the first comprehensive upgrade for the Triber, which was originally launched in India back in 2019. The new Triber is offered in four trim levels - Authentic, Evolution, Techno and Emotion. Full prices are as follows:

 

New Renault Triber Variants	Price (ex-showroom)
Authentic	Rs 6.29 lakh
Evolution	Rs 7.24 lakh
Techno	Rs 7.99 lakh
Emotion	Rs 8.64 lakh

AMT option costs an additional Rs 52,000 on the Emotion trim.
 

Starting with the design, the new Triber retains the silhouette of the outgoing model replete with the stepped roof design to free-up additional headroom in the rear. The big changes come to the front fascia which gets a new layered design  with a new rectangular grille with 3D design elements, new headlamps, a flatter sculpted bonnet and a chunkier front bumper with a large central airvent, faux side vents and low set fog lamps.
 

 

In profile, just the wheel designs are new, with the Triber continuing to feature Flex wheels (steel wheels with covers styled to look like alloys) in place of alloy wheels. While around the back, the tail lamps get revised internals with new LED lighting elements and is connected via a black applique. The Triber badging has been moved lower down on the tailgate, while the rear bumper gets a more squared-off design to add some muscle to the overall design. Buyers can pick from three colours for the new Triber - Amber Terracota, Shadow Grey and Zanskar Blue.
 

Moving to the cabin, the Triber now makes use of lighter tone plastics, while the centre console also gets a redesign. The central air vents have been moved lower down on the fascia with the touchscreen - now a freestanding unit - positioned above. A lot of the switchgear also looks to be unchanged, with Renault also retaining the small shelf at the base of the centre console. The seats also feature lighter fabrics to aid in the cabin feeling roomy. As before, the cabin features three rows of seating with the third row capable of being folded down or completely removed to free up space.
 

 

On the feature front, the new Triber gets key additions such as LED projector headlamps and fog lamps, auto headlamps, 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control and front parking sensors. On the safety side, 6 airbags, ESP and tyre pressure monitoring are now standard.

 

Under the skin, little has changed compared to the outgoing Triber with the familiar 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine carried over. The unit continues to push out 71 bhp and 96 Nm of torque and is offered with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT. The new Triber also retains the option for a dealer-fitted CNG kit.

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How to Align Your Car Maintenance Routine with Insurance Benefits

A vehicle is a major investment financially and practically—in our daily lives. Hence, proper care should be a priority for all car owners. Aligning regular maintenance with your car insurance coverage is an optimal way to protect your asset in the long run. In this guide, we’ll explore how to sync your car care routine with your insurance plan to make the most of both—smart, safe, and stress-free driving.

 

Why Car Maintenance Matters?

 

Routine car maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and can prevent expensive repairs, ensure your safety, retain resale value, and even impact your insurance claims process. Neglected vehicles develop serious issues over time, such as engine troubles and electrical faults. So, it is prudent to follow the prescribed service schedule. 

 

How Insurance Policies Work with Maintenance? 

 

While most basic motor insurance policies cover only accident damage, the degree of cover can vary when maintenance is overlooked. For example, if an engine failure happens due to an ignored oil service, your normal policy may not cover the full repair costs. Being diligent with upkeep projects is a responsibility. Building on this, a leading digital-first insurance provider like ACKO offers comprehensive plans. You can buy this from https://www.acko.com/ with the option to customise with add-ons like Engine Protection Cover, Key Loss Cover, etc. 

 

Practical Tips to Align Maintenance with Insurance Benefits 

 

Here are the main tips that align maintenance with insurance benefits: 

 

1. Create a Maintenance Schedule 

Refer to the owner’s manual for guidance on regular maintenance tasks, such as brake fluid changes and AC servicing, along with their recommended frequency. Mark reminders on your phone calendar to ensure you never miss a routine check-up. 

 

2. Keep Detailed Records 

Retain all repair and service invoices, along with a personal log of maintenance history. Note down the mileage, date, and spare parts/consumables used for every service task performed. Complete documentation shows diligent care. 

 

3. Choose the Right Insurance Plan  

Evaluate various offerings to find an optimal plan aligned to your usage, one that covers consumables, parts depreciation, and other extras relevant to regular vehicle wear-and-tear during claims.  

 

4. Address Issues Promptly 

Never ignore even minor faults or changes, like strange sounds. Nip problems in the bud before they escalate into something major and more expensive. Early intervention prevents disasters.  

 

5. Understand Policy Terms 

Read all fine print to avoid surprises later. Be aware of waiting periods, exclusions, claim procedures, and documentation needed. Also, be aware of the caps on covers, such as consumables and depreciation rates, that may apply if you claim a repair.  

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

 

Mentioned below are the common mistakes to avoid: 

 

Skipping Routine Maintenance  

Inattentive service habits can void vehicle warranty conditions. Insurance claims also risk rejection, as they may be alleged to have been caused by negligence, leading to breakdown or accident damage. Don't take shortcuts here. 

 

Not Documenting Services 

Inability to produce detailed service records during claims can mean out-of-pocket expenses even for valid repair needs. Leave no gaps in maintenance logs. 

 

Ignoring Warning Signs 

Unaddressed troubles progressively worsen, so never dismiss cues like the check engine light. Minor issues can turn into big problems without timely care.

 

Choosing Inadequate Insurance  

Opting for basic third-party plans without extras like consumables cover or engine protection means you must pay all associated repair bills from your own pocket, which turns out to be an expensive mistake! 

 

Benefits of Aligning Maintenance and Insurance 

 

The main benefits of aligning maintenance and insurance are: 

 

Financial Savings  

Comprehensive insurance and diligent upkeep are your best bets for minimising unexpected costs from mechanical issues or hidden wear and tear. Protect investments wisely.

 

Peace of Mind 

Rest easy knowing you have all bases covered - reliable car performance plus a supportive policy for unforeseen faults.

 

Long-Term Vehicle Value 

Regular maintenance, along with coverage for breakdown expenses, enables you to retain your asset's operational health and longevity, which also boosts its future resale value.

 

The Bottom Line  

The benefits of aligning frequent vehicle upkeep with comprehensive insurance are clear: financial protection, practical reassurance, and long-term retention of asset value. Be diligent and proactive by creating service reminders, keeping detailed records, addressing problems early, and choosing optimal plans. 

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